DIY Cold Cathode lighting

[AKlass]

So Instead of wiring up what could be thousands of LEDs I decided to use cold cathodes instead. I'm using 6 blue cathodes and 6 red cathodes to hopefully provide enough light for my plants.
I place my order on Newegg Sunday, and they're here today!

Turns out the red cathodes are actually red while the blue ones are white with blue painted stripes.

 

[AKlass]

Ok so They were easy to setup.. I just need to figure out a way to water proof this, as well as get some reflectors.
Wiring

Need reflectors but results:

Oh yeah, this is why I'm replacing my MH

 

[oblrman]

Interesting idea. Do you know how many lumens each bulb produces? Is the light frequency good for plant? Let us know how it works!

 

[AKlass]

it says that each bulb produces 28,000-30,000 cd/m. I'm not sure about them and my plants, so thats what I'm testing. I made a Cheapo DIY reflector from cardboard and aluminum tape and to tell the truth, it isn't as bright as i thought it would be. But hopefully the spectrum of light is enough

 

[sostoudt]

ill be watching this thread. i have heard test are being done with on plants. of course those were made to grow plants.

 

[sostoudt]

btw is that supposed to be a melt spot in the picture(halide one)

 

[AKlass]

btw is that supposed to be a melt spot in the picture(halide one)

That was the spot I placed my MH and I have an airstone under it. Hot glass + rising water = crack

 

[bob965]

What do you think about using just one or two for a moonlight? Too bright?

I know you're not done yet, but WOW that wiring is a mess.

 

[Rivermud]

They are used for moonlighting all the time .. they work well

 

[AKlass]

What do you think about using just one or two for a moonlight? Too bright?

I know you're not done yet, but WOW that wiring is a mess.

Wiring is a mess because Its how crap I am. I just know PC wiring because its easy =) My dad is an electrician, but w/e my cheapo reflector covers up the mess until I can find something better as a reflector. and they're used for moonlight all the time just google it